Your Quick 30-Second Answer!
The New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), updated for 2024, is a pathway for skilled foreign workers and international graduates from Atlantic Canada institutions to obtain permanent residence in New Brunswick. Employers in the province can hire foreign workers for jobs they can't fill locally, but must first become designated and have their job positions endorsed by the province. Eligible foreign workers must have qualifying work experience, meet educational and language requirements, and show proof of settlement funds. The application process involves onboarding and intercultural competency training for employers, and for workers, securing a job offer from a designated employer, preparing necessary documents, and applying for permanent residency through IRCC. This program addresses labor shortages in New Brunswick and supports both employers and potential immigrants through resources and guidance.
For an in-depth overview, please see the "Table of Contents" below.
Welcome to this easy-to-follow guide on the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). This guide is your secret weapon. It’ll take all the confusing stuff and make it super easy to understand. Plus, it's packed with insider secrets to help you shine brighter than the rest when you apply! Primarily, this guide is for anyone who wants to learn about immigration to Canada through the Atlantic Immigration Program.
This guide is here to make everything clearer and simpler for you. If you find the official rules and documents about the requirements to move to Canada confusing, this guide can be your helpful friend. It’s here to give you clear and easy help so you can understand how Canadian permanent residence works without any problem.
The New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), updated for 2024, offers a pathway to permanent residence for both skilled foreign workers and international graduates from recognized post-secondary institutions in Atlantic Canada, including New Brunswick. This program is beneficial for individuals who aspire to work and live in New Brunswick and for employers in the province who are unable to fill job vacancies locally.
Eligibility for Employers:
Eligibility for Foreign Workers:
Application Process:
Employer and Candidate Support:
The AIP is a comprehensive program tailored to address the labor shortages in New Brunswick by facilitating the immigration of skilled workers and graduates. It emphasizes employer designation and position endorsement, ensuring a streamlined and supportive process for both employers and potential immigrants.
Quick Look:
The New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program is not a separate program in itself. Instead, it falls under the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) that is designed commonly for four Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
What's the Purpose of This Program?
This program targets highly skilled workers, mid-level professionals, and international graduates aiming to live and work in Canada's Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
Who's It For? (Eligibility Criteria)
The AIP was introduced to attract skilled workers and graduates for Canada's Atlantic regions. Within the AIP, there are three main pathways (methods): the Atlantic High-Skilled Program, the Atlantic International Graduate Program, and the Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program. Each has its own criteria around jobs, experience, education, and language.
Why's This Program Around?
Provinces like New Brunswick in Atlantic Canada need specific kinds of workers. The Atlantic Immigration Program (a bigger project) is the answer to this need. It invites skilled people from other countries to come and work, helping the area grow and prosper.
Application Process: How to Apply?
What's Next Once You're In?
After receiving the green light (approval), you'll be on your way to the Atlantic provinces, ready to begin your work or further studies and integrate into the Canadian Atlantic community.
Wrapping Up:
It's a part of the larger Canada Atlantic Immigration Program and offers skilled people a chance to live and work in beautiful places like New Brunswick and the nearby Atlantic regions like Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
What's the Program About?
The New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program is a partnership between the Canadian federal government and the Atlantic provinces, designed to attract and retain skilled immigrants to New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. It is a part of a bigger initiative called the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). This larger program helps get workers and graduates from other countries to work in Atlantic provinces. The idea is simple: there are jobs waiting and they need the right people to fill them.
Why Does This Program Exist?
Purpose: Some areas in Atlantic Canada need more workers for certain roles. So, the AIP helps get people from other countries to come work and live here.
Process: AIP has three different 'paths' or 'streams'. They are called Atlantic High-Skilled Program (think of it as jobs needing special skills), Atlantic International Graduate Program (for people who've recently finished their studies), and Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (for other jobs that need some specific experience). Each stream has its own rules (criteria), such as job experience and language skills. And here's the best part: local employers and some newcomer-assisting groups (settlement service organizations) guide applicants at every step from start to Finish.
To wrap it up, The "New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program" is like an open invitation for skilled people from other places to come, work, and make a life in Atlantic Canada.
Canada Atlantic Immigration Program: How Does It Work for New Brunswick?
Step 1 - Picking You Out: Imagine a job market. Companies from places like New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island are looking for people to hire. If one of these companies thinks you've got what they need, they'll pick you and guide you on what to do next.
Step 2 - Help from Companies: After they choose you, they're not leaving you alone in the dark. The company, along with some helpers, will give you a list of forms to fill out. They'll also hand you important papers like a letter saying the province is okay with you coming over and a job offer form.
Step 3 - Filling Out Forms: Next, you go online to a place called the 'Permanent residence online application portal'. It's a bit like setting up an email account. There's a guidebook (named IMM 0154) to help you fill out everything correctly.
Choosing the Right Path for You: Now, the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program falls under a bigger program called Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIP), which has a few different paths or categories:
1. Atlantic High-Skilled Program (For special job skills)
2. Atlantic International Graduate Program (For those who just finished studying)
3. Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (For specific job experience)
Depending on your skills and background, they'll put you in one of these paths. Each has its own rules, like how good you are at English or French, your past jobs, and your education.
A Quick Reminder: While the company starts the process, if you fit the rules, you'll have a higher chance of living and working in places like New Brunswick for good.
Extra Info: There are links around this page that can explain each path in detail, so click on them if you want more info. If ever confused, ask the company helping you or check the official guides. Always best to be sure!
A New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program immigrant is someone wishing to live in New Brunswick, which is part of the broader region of Atlantic Canada – alongside Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. This program provides three different pathways depending on one's experience and aims. Here's a concise breakdown for clarity:
Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP)
Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP)
Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (AISP)
The New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program is systematic (organized step-by-step). It has specific criteria (requirements) to match people's skills with New Brunswick's needs. The ultimate goal? Strengthen New Brunswick’s workforce and enrich its communities.
Here’s a straightforward guide to help you understand the required criteria for the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Language Proficiency: For the Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP) or the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP), a minimum CLB/NCLC 5 (language level) is required in all areas - speaking, listening, reading, writing. For the Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (AISP), at least CLB/NCLC 4 is needed.
Work Experience
Job Offer Requirements: All sections (streams) of the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program require a job offer from a pre-approved employer in New Brunswick. This offer must be full-time and year-round, and it should match certain TEER or NOC job categories.
Education:
Settlement Fund: This requirement involves demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to support yourself upon arrival. If you are coming from outside Canada, you need to meet specific financial criteria (e.g., having 12.5% of a certain income level). If you are already legally working in Canada, this financial requirement does not apply.
Endorsement: For every stream, you must obtain a special Letter of Endorsement from New Brunswick, which is a mandatory requirement for your application.
1. Language Proficiency
In the New Brunswick Atlantic Program, different streams have distinct language benchmarks. For the Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP) or the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP), aim for a CLB/NCLC 5 (language level) in all areas - speaking, listening, reading, writing. For the Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (AISP), you'll need at least a CLB/NCLC 4.
2. Work Experience
Experience requirements differ by the stream:
3. Job Offer Requirements
Every section (stream) of this program requires a job agreement (offer) from a pre-approved employer in New Brunswick. This agreement should be full-time and year-round, fitting certain TEER or NOC (job categories).
4. Education
Depending on the program, here’s what you should know:
5. Settlement Fund
This means showing you have enough money to get started. If coming from outside Canada, you need a set amount (like having 12.5% of a certain income level). If you already work legally in Canada, you don't need this money.
6. Endorsement
For every stream, you need a special Letter of Endorsement from New Brunswick. Think of it as a golden ticket.
Knowing these points will help you smoothly go through the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program. This program is all about getting more skilled people to work and live in New Brunswick.
Here's a step-by-step guide to assist you in understanding the application process.
1. Choosing the Right Path:
Self-Evaluation: Begin by looking at your skills, past jobs, and where you see yourself in the future. This helps you decide which part of the Atlantic Immigration Program fits you - whether it's the Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP), Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP), or the Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (AISP).
2. Connecting with Employers:
Job Search: Typically, you'd start by getting a job agreement (offer) from a specific employer in New Brunswick that's part of the program.
3. Getting the Provincial Endorsement:
Obtain Confirmation: After getting a job offer and being chosen by an employer, the employer and their helper organization (settlement service organization) will show you how to get the all-important Provincial Confirmation of Endorsement Letter.
4. Employers Taking the First Step:
Before anything, an employer in New Brunswick must pick you as someone they want to hire. They start the process of selecting and getting the paperwork right.
5 .Guidance and Help:
Once an employer chooses you, they, with their helper group (settlement service organization), will guide you on which part of the program to apply for. There are three main paths:
Which path fits you depends on your skills and the job offer you have.
6. Key Paperwork:
The employer, with the helper group, gives you important papers like:
You'll need these when you put in your application.
7. Getting Your Application Ready:
Document Compilation: Check the official "Required Documents" list for the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program. This ensures you have everything from job offer papers to language test scores and education checks.
Online Application Portal: Now, open an online account at the Permanent residence application site. Here's where you send in your application.
Use the Guide: As you fill in your application, keep the Instruction Guide (similar to IMM 0154) handy. It helps you fill everything out correctly.
8. Requirements for Each Path: Each part has its own needs. These can involve:
9. Send and Wait: Once everything looks good and you've attached all the papers, send your application. The Canadian immigration team will check your application and decide if you can become a permanent resident.
With these steps and meeting all the needs, you could soon be making a life in the lively region of New Brunswick.
Once you've submitted your New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program application, it is carefully assessed by Canadian immigration authorities. Here's a step-by-step outline of their process:
1. Initial Review (First Glance):
Officers quickly review your application. They check if you've provided complete information about your current job offer, past work experiences, and if all the necessary documents and forms are attached.
2. Detailed Verification (Fact Check):
They go deeper into the details you've shared. This includes verifying if you've worked in New Brunswick as mentioned and whether you've completed the required 1560 work hours. Another critical check is your language skills, specifically the CLB/NCLC (language proficiency scores).
3. Educational Evaluation (School Check):
The focus here is on your educational credentials. Officers confirm whether you've pursued education in Canada or if your international degree is recognized in Canada.
4. Financial Assessment (Money Check):
For applicants outside of Canada, they check if you have adequate funds, set at 12.5 percent of a given standard. If you're already residing in Canada, you don't need this financial proof.
5. Occupational Verification (Job Match):
They match your previous job roles and your current job offer against the program's criteria, employing specific job categories and codes.
6. Identity Verification (Who You Are):
At this stage, they might ask for your "biometric data" which includes things like fingerprints. This is done to confirm that you are indeed who you say you are.
7. Comprehensive Evaluation (Overall Look):
Officers conduct a final review to ensure all information you've provided aligns with the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program standards.
8. Decision Notification (Final Decision):
After their thorough evaluation, they'll inform you of their decision. If all details are in order, you move forward. If there are inconsistencies, they'll indicate what corrections are needed.
Remember, immigration rules might undergo changes. So, while this offers an overview, always refer to the official Canadian government website for the latest details.
Required Documents:
1. Job Documents:
2. Language Skills:
3. Work Experience (Job History Papers):
4. Education Credentials (School Papers):
5. Settlement Funds (Money Proof - if needed):
6. Residency Requirements (Living Proof - for some parts):
6. Personal Identification (Who You Are Papers):
7. Family-Related Documents (Family Papers):
8. Medical Examination (Health Check):
9. Police Clearance (Safety Papers):
10. Job Market Impact Assessment:
11. Biometrics:
12. Online Account Details:
Always double-check the specific needs for the path you're choosing, as document requirements can differ.
Time Involved:
Money Involved:
It's worth noting that these times and costs can change. For the latest info, it's best to check the official Canadian government website or speak to someone who specializes in the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program.
Here's a clear guide, breaking down technical terms for easy understanding.
Things you should do (Dos):
1. Choose the Correct Path (Pick the Right Stream): The New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program offers various paths or "streams" such as the Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP), Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP), and Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (AISP). Select the one that fits your credentials and job offer.
2. Collect All Papers (Prepare All Documents): Get all the essential documents in place. This means having a "provincial confirmation of endorsement letter" (approval note) and an "offer of employment form" (official job offer paper).
3. Follow the Official Manual (Use the Official Guide): The "Instruction Guide (IMM 0154)" serves as your guidebook. Stick to its instructions diligently.
4. Submit Language Scores (Provide Language Test Results): Depending on your chosen stream, you might need either a CLB/NCLC 4 or 5 score. This evaluates your English or French proficiency.
5. List Out Your Job History (Detail Your Work Experience): Ensure that your work history aligns with the program's criteria. It should fall within the specific "TEER or NOC categories" (job classifications).
6.Verify Your Studies (Validate Your Education): If your studies were outside Canada, you'd need an "Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)" (evaluation) to verify your degree's Canadian equivalency.
7. Demonstrate Financial Preparedness (Show You Have Enough Money): For those applying from abroad, present proof of "settlement funds" (living expenses in Canada) equating to 12.5% of a set minimum income. If you're already in Canada and employed, this step can be skipped.
8. Secure Approval (Get an Endorsement Letter): Get a "Letter of Endorsement" (official approval) from an Atlantic province.
9. Confirm Your Stay (Meet Residency Needs): If opting for the AIGP stream, ascertain you've resided in an Atlantic province for a minimum of 16 months over the past two years.
Things you should avoid (Don'ts):
1. Partial Submissions (Incomplete Application): Ensure your application is complete with all required documents.
2. Misrepresentation (Giving False Information): Be honest in detailing your work history, academic qualifications, and all other data.
3. Overlooking Job Specifications (Not Checking Job Offer Details): The job you're offered should come from an officially approved (a "designated employer"). Ensure the position is full-time, non-seasonal, and aligns with the specified "TEER or NOC codes" (job classifications).
4. Bypassing Financial Requirements (Ignoring Money Requirements): If applying from outside Canada, remember to display proof of sufficient financial resources.
5. Neglecting Official News (Missing Official Updates): Regularly consult official channels to stay updated with the program changes.
For the best results, think about consulting with a professional, like an immigration specialist. They can guide you throughout the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program application journey, ensuring the best possible outcome.
Here are some straightforward steps to enhance your chances:
1. Connect with Local Groups (Provincial Networking): The local business groups in New Brunswick, known as chambers of commerce, and job boards often have connections with approved (designated) employers. Building relationships here can help you find a job offer that's recognized by the program.
2. Keep an Eye on Limits (Quotas): Each category or stream, like the Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP) or Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP), has specific limits on how many people they accept. By regularly checking updates, you can apply when there's space available.
3. Be Detailed in Your Application (Draft with Detail): Adding extra details about your past jobs, what you did there, and any connections you have in New Brunswick can make your application stand out. Always be clear and detailed.
4. Check Your Credentials Early (Pre-Evaluation): Start early by getting your "Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)" (this checks if Canada accepts your degree) or language tests done. This way, you're prepared and can apply faster.
5. Join Workshops about Immigration (Stay Informed with Immigration Seminars): Sometimes, the province or other organizations hold online sessions or workshops. Joining these can help you understand what they're looking for and any new changes.
Always remember, while these insights can help, it's essential to follow the program's official guidelines. Consulting with experts can further help you navigate effectively.
Case Study: Arjun's Journey through the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program
Let's explore Arjun's experience, a tech expert from India, as he navigated the program to achieve his dream of living in Canada.
Background:
Arjun had a Master's degree and five years in the IT world. He discovered the program and thought it might be his way into Canada.
Challenges:
1. Connections (Networking): At first, Arjun didn't know anyone in New Brunswick or any approved (designated) employers, making his start quite tricky.
2. Choosing a Stream (Picking the Right Category): With various paths available, like the Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP) and the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP), Arjun was a bit confused about which one was for him.
3. Application Details (Paperwork): Arjun found the amount of paperwork, especially the Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), a little overwhelming.
Steps He Took:
1. Building Contacts: Arjun connected with New Brunswick's local business groups and job platforms. In a short time, he had made some great contacts and even got a job offer in his field.
2. Finding the Right Stream: After talking to some experts and attending a workshop on the program, he realized the AHSP fit his work experience best.
3. Getting Ready Before Applying: Arjun got his "Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)" and made sure his language test results were on point before sending his application.
End Result:
With a well-prepared application and the right job offer, Arjun's application was successful. Just seven months later, he was on his way to starting his new life in New Brunswick.
Main Point:
With determination, the right advice, and being proactive, anyone can find success in the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program. Arjun's story is proof of that.
Q1. What is the New Brunswick Atlantic Program (AIP) exactly?
A1. This program is a part of a bigger initiative called the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). This larger program helps get workers and graduates from other countries to work in places like New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
Q2. Who can apply for the New Brunswick Atlantic Program?
A2. Any foreign national (person from another country) with the right skills and experience who can contribute to New Brunswick's economy can apply. Ensure you fit into one of the specific streams, such as AHSP or AIGP, and meet all criteria.
Q3. Do I need a job offer to apply for the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program?
A3. Yes, a job offer from a designated (approved) employer in New Brunswick is essential for most streams of the program.
Q4. How does this program differ from other Canadian immigration programs?
A4. This program specifically targets the Atlantic regions, focusing on their unique economic needs. While the general process is similar to other Canadian immigration avenues, the criteria and conditions are tailored for New Brunswick and nearby provinces.
Q5. Is there an age limit for the New Brunswick Atlantic?
A5. While there isn't a strict age limit, your age might be a factor in your application's points assessment. Younger applicants often have an advantage, but what's more critical is your skills, experience, and other qualifications.
Q6. If I'm successful, can I move to another province?
A6. Initially, you're expected to reside in New Brunswick. However, once you obtain permanent residency (long-term stay permission), you have the freedom to live and work anywhere in Canada.
Q7. How long does the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program's permanent residency last?
A7. Once granted, permanent residency in Canada doesn't have an expiry for staying. However, to maintain it, you must live in Canada for at least 730 days during the last five years.
Q8. Can my family members come with me under the New Brunswick Atlantic?
A8. Absolutely! You can include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children in your application, but there will be additional fees for each member.
Q9. What happens if my application is rejected?
A9. If not successful, you can reconsider your options, possibly reapplying after addressing any issues in your original application. It might also be helpful to seek advice from an immigration consultant.
Q10. Where can I get more updated information about the New Brunswick Atlantic Program?
A10. Always refer to the official Canadian government website for the latest guidelines, rules, and updates about the New Brunswick Atlantic.
Remember, while these FAQs provide a general understanding, specifics can change, so always consult official sources or professionals when considering the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information on the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program, it's essential to consult official Canadian government website. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).
Kamal Akhtar (Immigration Lawyer)
Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public
BCOM; MBA; LL.B; LL.M (York University, Toronto)
As the founder of this website and your guide through the complexities of Canadian immigration law, my academic credentials include a Bachelor of Law (LL.B) and Master of Law (LL.M) from York University, Toronto, complemented by an Honours Diploma in Immigration Consulting. I am a lawyer licensed by the Law Society of Ontario (LSO). My affiliation with legal associations such as the Canadian Immigration Lawyers Association (CILA), the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC), the Canadian Bar Association (CBA), and the Ontario Bar Association (OBA) underscores my commitment to immigration policies and practices. I share insights shaped by over 25 years of legal experience. Please note that information on this website does not constitute legal or professional advice.